When you're heading out to catch a live concert, cheer on a UVA basketball game, or attend a major event in central Virginia, there's one place that always comes up in the conversation: the John Paul Jones Arena. This isn’t just another sports venue or music hall—it’s a hub for the Charlottesville community and a top destination for fans, artists, and event-goers from all over.

Whether you're a student at the University of Virginia, a local resident, or visiting from out of town, the JPJ Arena has something special waiting for you. With its modern design, top-notch facilities, and a commitment to accessibility and sustainability, it’s no wonder why this venue is one of the most talked-about in the state.

And if you've got a show or game coming up, you probably have a few questions: Where do you park? How do you get your tickets? What can you bring inside? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Let's walk through everything you need to know before your next trip to the John Paul Jones Arena.

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Table of Contents

• What Is the John Paul Jones Arena?
• Events You Can Experience at JPJ
• Getting to the Arena: Parking and Directions
• Tickets, Will Call, and Box Office Info
• What You Can Bring Inside the Arena
• Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the John Paul Jones Arena?

The John Paul Jones Arena—often referred to simply as "JPJ"—is Charlottesville’s go-to venue for top-tier live experiences. It’s home to the University of Virginia Cavaliers men’s and women’s basketball teams, and it also hosts concerts, conventions, and special events throughout the year.

What sets JPJ apart is how it was built: it was one of the first major arenas in the country constructed almost entirely from private funds by a public university. That makes it a unique blend of public access and private support.

It’s also the largest indoor arena in the entire Commonwealth of Virginia, so whether you're there for a packed basketball game or a sold-out music tour, you’re in for a big-time experience.

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Events You Can Experience at JPJ

From thrilling NCAA basketball games to nationally touring artists, the JPJ Arena calendar is always packed with exciting events. Some of the most popular events include:

• UVA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Games
• Live Concerts Featuring Top Artists
• Family-Friendly Shows and Performances
• Community Events and Conferences

If you're into music, keep an eye out for big names that hit the JPJ stage. Recently, artists like MercyMe, TobyMac, and Matthew West have brought their music to the venue, giving fans a chance to enjoy unforgettable performances together.

And for sports fans, watching a Cavaliers game in this arena is an experience you don’t want to miss. With a seating capacity that fills the space with energy, it’s a place where every game feels electric.

Getting to the Arena: Parking and Directions

If you're planning to drive to the John Paul Jones Arena, you'll want to know where to park and what to expect. The parking areas around the arena are clearly marked, and passes are required for most lots.

You can buy parking passes online ahead of time through Ticketmaster, pick one up at the arena box office, or pay at the lot on the day of the event. Either way, it’s a good idea to arrive early, especially for big shows or games when parking fills up quickly.

Public transportation and ride-sharing options are also available, so you might want to consider those if you're coming from downtown Charlottesville or the UVA campus.

Tickets, Will Call, and Box Office Info

Whether you bought your tickets online or need to pick up a will call reservation, the John Paul Jones Arena box office is your go-to spot.

Located at the main entrance of the arena, the box office is open during event days and offers assistance for ticket purchases, will call pickups, and general questions about your event.

If you ordered tickets online and selected will call, you can pick them up at the box office starting 48 hours before the event. Just bring your ID and confirmation email or order number.

And here’s a cool thing: $1 from every ticket sold goes to support two great causes—the Hickman Holler Appalachian Relief Fund (HHARF) and Reverb. Established in 2020 by Senora May and Tyler Childers, HHARF focuses on helping communities in need across Appalachia, while Reverb works with artists to make concerts more sustainable and eco-friendly.

What You Can Bring Inside the Arena

The John Paul Jones Arena is a cashless venue, so be sure to bring your credit or debit card for parking, concessions, and merchandise. No need to worry about finding an ATM inside.

When it comes to bags, small clutch-style bags are allowed. They should be no larger than 4.5 x 6.5 inches and may be carried with or without a strap. All bags are subject to search, so leave any large backpacks or suitcases at home.

If you're curious about what else is allowed, the arena has clear guidelines on prohibited items. These include outside food and drink, large umbrellas, and professional camera equipment. It’s always best to check the official website or reach out to the box office if you're unsure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the John Paul Jones Arena cashless?

Yes, the JPJ Arena is completely cashless. That includes parking, concessions, and merchandise. So make sure to bring a payment card or a mobile wallet for easy access.

Where is the box office located?

The box office is located at the main entrance of the arena. That’s where you’ll go for ticket purchases, will call pickups, and general assistance before or during events.

Can I bring a bag into the arena?

Small clutch bags (no larger than 4.5 x 6.5 inches) are allowed and will be searched at the entrance. Larger bags, including backpacks and purses, are not permitted.

How do I get parking passes for JPJ events?

You can get parking passes online through Ticketmaster, at the box office, or at the lot on event day. Just keep in mind that parking fills up fast for big events, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.